Democracy Monument, a Striking Attraction in Bangkok

The Democracy Monument, an imposing Western-inspired creation located in the heart of the Thai capital Bangkok lays claim to a turbulent and eventful legacy. Undoubtedly a striking monument, it is considered to represent the consolidation of liberty and democracy in Thailand. It was created by order of Field Marshal Plaek Pibulsonggram to commemorate the military coup of June 1932 which was to lead to the creation of Thailand's first democratic-oriented constitution replacing rule by absolute monarch.

The focus of the monument is a sculpted replica of a palm leaf document box which contains the 1932 Thai constitution; this element is placed on top of a couple of golden bowls which surmount a circular turret. The constitution is symbolically protected by four structures which resemble wings, which signify the four main divisions of the armed forces of Thailand – the army, air force, navy and police which were responsible for the coup of 1932.

The wing-like structures stand at an impressive 24 metres; the radius of the monument's base also corresponds to this measurement. This figure commemorates the date of the coup, 24th June. Similarly the three metre high central turret represents the customary Thai calendar's third month which corresponds to June. Initially 75 small scale cannon were positioned around the monument's outer ring, representing the year of the coup, which is identified as the year 2475 in the traditional Buddhist calendar. Facing out from the bottom of two of the wings may be seen fountains which take the form of nagas, the snake-like guardian figures which have their origins in Buddhist and Hindu mythology.

At the monument's base may be seen relief sculptures which portray Thailand's armed forces as the Thai people's personification and as champions of democracy. In these reliefs civilians are depicted as the grateful beneficiaries of the armed forces' benevolence and heroism.

Although the political environment in Thailand at the time of the construction of the monument cannot be truly described as democracy, in later years the Democracy Monument was the site of numerous major pro-democracy rallies, giving it a sort of legitimacy it initially lacked.

For the seeker of a fine Bangkok serviced apartment there is no better choice than the Grand President Bangkok. These Sukhumvit apartments offer comfortable accommodation with modern amenities providing excellent services for its guests.

Melbourne is an important and historic city in Australia with breathtaking landmarks and monuments, such as the Melbourne Opera House and Melbourne Harbor Bridge. Some of them are more than 200 years old under excellent condition. Here are some of the top landmarks and monuments to visit when staying in the historic city of Melbourne.

Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand is one of the famous tourist destinations that attract many tourists every year. The fascinating, colorful and thrilling city of Bangkok has loads to offers in terms of tourist attractions.

Romania, a former communist state started formal dealings with the EU countries in 1974. After many years of communist rule, Romania, like many other eastern and south eastern European countries received an invitation by the EU. This was a very attractive offer because the country’s economy was in bad shape and national institutions were in chaos.

Bangkok started out as a small trading village to becoming one of Asia's most cosmopolitan cities. Millions of people travel to Bangkok to visit the majestic palaces and magnificent temples located mostly at Rattanakosin Island or also known as the Old City

The best time to visit Bangkok is from November to March. Plan to see during the main festivals like Chinese New year and the yearly lacto-vegetarian celebration in October. The month of May, June, September, December and January are the famed celebration time, and absolutely the correct time to make Bangkok your holiday location. There are top attractions given here. Book flights to Bangkok and

A very cosmopolitan city of Bangkok, to give themselves time to return to its roots and introspect through Bangkok Songkran Festival. The three-day festival offers the opportunity to get the natives back to their family members, and rituals to drink after the Thai community. At the same time, it is an excellent opportunity for tourists to see the rituals up close and personal. Missing spectacle of